Statement from President Margaret Froh in Support of Two-Spirit and LGBTQIA+ Métis Citizens
In recent months, we’ve witnessed an onslaught of protests and debate surrounding policies on gender and sexual diversity inclusion in schools and healthcare settings. As President of the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) and a proud Two-Spirit Métis leader, I want to express my steadfast support for Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ persons, particularly Two Spirit, trans, and non-binary Métis youth who have witnessed this hateful discourse.
To all those youth who are hurting, to those who feel isolated and invalidated, I want you to know that I see you. Your community sees you. We stand with you. Your identity is valid. You deserve access to gender affirming care and to be addressed in safe and supportive ways.
Across the Métis Nation, you are valued members of our communities and deserve to be heard, understood, and respected. That’s why the MNO formed a Two-Spirit Working Group in 2016, to honour this community within a community for their insights and perspectives. Our Working Group ensures that Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ Métis in Ontario have a dedicated place in the circle to discuss and advance important issues impacting the community.
For Métis citizens and other Canadians wondering how best to support Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ Indigenous folks, I encourage you to begin by reading and listening to Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ stories. Foster safe and supportive community spaces where we can authentically express ourselves. Build bridges of understanding and empathy. We have overcome so many barriers in recent years, as Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+, and as Métis people. Together we will continue to break down barriers and create a stronger, more harmonious society.
In solidary, always,
President Margaret Froh